South America Domestic Violence Resources

Unveiling South America's Shadow: Confronting the Epidemic of Gender-based Violence

South America grapples with some of the highest rates of gender-based violence in the world. A study conducted by the UN Women's Office for South America has shed light on the alarming escalation of domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic, exposing the profound vulnerabilities faced by women and girls across the continent.

Domestic Violence Resources Across World Regions

The findings of the study paint a grim picture: domestic violence surged by 25% during the pandemic, with men emerging as the primary perpetrators of violence against women. Shockingly, the vast majority of victims were young women between the ages of 18 and 34, highlighting the urgent need for targeted interventions to address the root causes of this crisis.

South America Domestic Violence Resources

The increase in domestic violence can be attributed to a myriad of interconnected factors, each exacerbating the other in a vicious cycle of oppression and despair. The stress and anxiety induced by the pandemic, compounded by social isolation and economic insecurity, have created a perfect storm for the escalation of violence within intimate relationships.

Women who have experienced violence are more likely to reside in households with lower incomes, exacerbating their vulnerability to economic instability and insecurity. Many have lost their jobs due to the pandemic, further exacerbating their financial precarity and heightening their risk of experiencing violence.

Domestic Violence Resources

Additionally, the UN Women's study found a strong correlation between experiences of violence and heightened levels of anxiety and depression among survivors, underscoring the profound toll that abuse takes on mental health and well-being.

As we confront the shadow of gender-based violence that looms large over South America, it is imperative that we take decisive action to address the root causes of this crisis. Investment in comprehensive support services, including counseling, legal advocacy, and economic empowerment programs, is essential to ensure that survivors have the resources and support they need to rebuild their lives.

Moreover, efforts to challenge harmful gender norms and promote gender equality must be prioritized, fostering a culture of respect and empowerment that empowers women and girls to assert their rights and agency. By amplifying survivors' voices, advocating for systemic change, and standing in solidarity with those affected by violence, we can create a future where every individual is free from the scourge of gender-based violence.

In the vast and diverse landscape of South America, let us strive to illuminate the path towards a brighter tomorrow, where love triumphs over violence, and every voice is heard and valued. For in unity and compassion lies our greatest strength, and in collective action lies our hope for a world free from the shackles of oppression and fear.

Argentina	Children (under 18)	Childhelpline phone: 102
Women	Línea 144 phone: 144
Men	Línea 144 phone: 144
Older Adults (over 60)	Línea 144 phone: 144
Women & Children (under 18)	There Is A Way Out Civil Association phone: +54 9 11 6897-7876 message on Facebook
Bolivia	Women	Casa del Mujer phone: 591 4 663 8517 message on Facebook
Brazil	Children (under 18)	TECA phone: +55 21 2589 5656
Women	Dial Human Rights phone: 100
Men	Dial Human Rights phone: 100
Older Adults (over 60)	Dial Human Rights phone: 100
Chile	Women	Red Chilena Contra la Violencia Hacia las Mujeres phone: 800 104 008 message on Facebook
Colombia	Children (under 18)	Linea 106 phone: 106
Women	123 Mujer Hotline phone: 123
Men	Línea Salvavidas phone: 3117668666
Older Adults (over 60)	Línea Salvavidas phone: 3117668666
Ecuador	Everyone	Cepam Quito phone: 098 63 62 526message on Facebook
Guyana	Women	Fundación Sobrevivientes phone: (592) 227-3454
Paraguay	Women	Linea mujer phone: 137
Peru	Children (under 18)	Fundación ANAR phone: 0800 22210
Women	PNP Women and Children Protection Center phone: +63 919 777 7377
Men	Línea 100 Violencia familiar y sexual phone: 100
Older Adults (over 60)	Línea 100 Violencia familiar y sexual phone: 100
Suriname	Women	Stop Violence Against Women Foundation phone: +597 470 0380
Trinidad and Tobago	Everyone	Families in Action phone: (868) 628-2333 phone: 800 7283
Uruguay	Everyone	Red Uruguaya Contra la Violencia Doméstica y Sexual phone: 0800 4141 message on Facebook
Venezuela	Women	Fondo de Población de las Naciones Unidas phone: 0800-MUJERES (6853737) message on Facebook

How can I tell if someone is being abused?

Recognizing and responding to signs of abuse is crucial in providing support to those who may be in danger. Here’s a summary of the steps you can take to help someone you suspect is being abused:

Be observant: Pay attention to subtle signs such as isolation from friends and family, financial control, and reluctance to discuss their relationship.
Listen without judgment: Offer a supportive ear and avoid pressuring the victim to take action. Understand that leaving an abusive situation can be complex and dangerous.
Make an anonymous report: If you witness or suspect ongoing abuse, don’t hesitate to call the authorities. Your intervention could save a life.
Reach out to support services: Refer the victim to organizations equipped to handle cases of abuse. These services can provide guidance and assistance while respecting confidentiality.
Avoid contact with the abuser: Refrain from confronting the perpetrator directly. Leave intervention to trained professionals to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Maintain confidentiality: Respect the privacy of the victim by keeping any disclosures or reports confidential. Avoid sharing details on social media, as it could compromise the victim’s safety.

By following these steps, you can offer vital support to those experiencing abuse while minimizing risks to yourself and the victim. Remember that your actions can make a difference in helping someone escape a dangerous situation.

Violence Prevention and Self Defense Techniques

The Center for Violence Prevention and Self Defense (CVPSD) is a non profit 501(C)(3) with a mission to stop violence by educating at-risk people and empower them with the skills needed to protect themselves by providing online and live training.

Through workshops and seminars we educate participants about violence prevention and guide them on assessing risk factors while establishing boundaries in relationships. Additionally practical self defense classes equip people with hands on skills and effective strategies to prevent and intervene in cases of assault. CVPSD reaches individuals and communities through partnerships with schools and other nonprofits, community groups, as well as classes for the public.